OGA Netball - Sunday 9th November 2008 - report by Eileen Mollard
It was a truly memorable Old Grovian Day.
Instead of my usual letters to past players, Caroline Pearce “Face booked” them to invite them to play in the match.
I was led to believe around 11 or so were coming and was amazed when they kept “rolling in”. Unbeknown to me the former players had been informed it was my last OG match before retirement and I am very grateful that so many returned.
The schools 2nd VII played the OG’s, due to the large number of past players the majority changed into the game (some however chose to leave their trainers at home and support from the balcony or side lines! – don’t forget them next year!).
The school were very focused and played one of their best games this season. They were composed and used the court well, from defence to attack and at half time they were 7-5 in the lead.
In the second half a new group of OG’s came on to play and took command, pulling back to level but school held on and in the final minute scored giving school a narrow but well deserved victory, 9-8.
We then had a new game where two teams of OG’s played each other. Many still play at university or clubs where they now live or work. Even those who had not played since school took to the court as though it had been only yesterday.
There was plenty of movement up and down the court and the OG’s were enthusiastic and having a good time. To give the OG’s plenty of court time, school then gave them another short game, this time the OG’s were victorious.
After the final whistle we moved to the Hastings-Long Gallery for refreshments where again unbeknown to me, awaited a presentation. I thought I was usually up to speed with what was going on in the department, but this came as a total surprise with colleagues, friends and even a member of my family – Helen – keeping this from me.
Thanks must go to Helen Milnes for her very kind words; to Sam Cadman for the presentation of a beautiful bouquet of flowers, card and extremely generous cheque which I will use to buy something special as a reminder of all my “Old Grovians”, and thanks to Heather and Rachel Garner for their arrangements.
Thank you to my co-umpire Janet Knowles who has umpired for many OG matches, to Kerren Jennings for time keeping and scoring and to Ruth Thompson for ensuring the 2nd VII school team were on top form – despite then playing against them.
My last huge thanks must go to all the OG’s who made the effort to come, from near and far, both players and spectators. Please continue to support this special event – I may even play next year – briefly! It was a very enjoyable day, many thanks.
Eileen Mollard